Steep climb

Cog is still chugging up Mount Washington, but now on biodiesel

GORHAM - New biodiesel technology and an extended schedule give visitors to the Mount Washington Cog Railway the opportunity to spend an hour on top of the tallest peak in the Northeast to take photos, explore or enjoy a summit lunch while taking in the views.Tickets include free admission to the observatory museum - where the summit's amazing history and its spectacular weather occurrences are exhibited.

New this year starting, the Cog now offers two special events a month through October.The Ride and Observatory Tour series kicks off June 3 and includes a round trip to the summit and behind-the-scenes tour of the Mount Washington Observatory for $75.

The Photo Workshop Tour series includes a round-trip ticket and full day at the summit, amazing photo opportunities with a professional photographer, lunch and one-on-one instruction for $119.Old Peppersass, The Cog Railway's original steam engine built in 1866, sits at Marshfield Base Station where visitors will find a restaurant and gift shop. The Cog Railway Museum is in the lower level, which is full of memorabilia and tells the story of this pioneering mountain railroad. Vintage steam engine buffs, early birds and nostalgia enthusiasts can book the 8:15 a.m. run and be the first to climb Mount Washington in the morning with the steam crew.

Visit thecog.com for more information on events and offerings. The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located approximately six miles from Route 302 and Bretton Woods on Base Station Road in Marshfield Station. Call 278-5404 for more information.